Obituary of Jane Helen BLAKE-NEAL

February 18, 1923 - May 13, 2021

Jane Blake-Neal of Calgary, Alberta passed away on Thursday, May 13, 2021 having lived a long and rich life.

Born in New York State and raised in Cuba, NY she moved to the big city where she met Charles Hetherington. They raised four children together after moving to Calgary in 1952. Jane was a wonderful hostess and was always ready to try new adventures. This led to much travel, many friendships, and to her love of painting.  Jane was a member of the Federation of Canadian Artists and a life member of the Calgary Sketch Club.  Jane painted beautiful landscapes in watercolors and oils, and portraits in pastels.

In the 1970’s Jane met and married Jim Blake.  They spent happy days at their home in Elbow Park and later in Glenmore Landing.  Jane met John Neal at age 82, they married, and spent the next 8 years enjoying each other’s company. 

Jane is survived by her two sons, Bill Hetherington of Yuma, Arizona, and Pratt (Colleen) Hetherington of Calgary, AB; two step-sons, Terry Blake (Debbie) of Dallas, TX and Jim Blake in Calgary, AB; her daughters, Jane Thorburn, and Gail (Bob) Horvath, both of Calgary, AB; and step-daughter Malah Blake of Victoria, BC. She will also be lovingly remembered by her eight grandchildren, Rob, Jen, Garrett, Ali, Bill, Tim, Cassie and Kellie; nine great-grandchildren, Zach, Miguelito, Santiago, Maisie, Clementine, Cassidy, Hailey, Cole and Kody; and two great-great-grandchildren, Booker and Levi. Jane was predeceased by her three husbands: John Neal, James Blake and Charles Hetherington; her parents: Luella and Stanton Childs; and her daughter-in-law Joan Hetherington.

We are all grateful that she found a comfortable and caring home at Beaverdam Lodge in which to spend her final years. Jane loved the food, the friendships, and the wonderful activities which keep her active. The family would like to thank the whole team for making every day special for our Mom.

In living memory of Jane Blake-Neal, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.